Useful when you know what they mean, maddening when you don't, acronyms and abbreviations are everywhere - and this book will interpret them for you. The Australian dictionary of acronyms and abbreviations has become a classic Australian reference book since it first appeared a quarter-century ago. This fifth edition is one-third bigger than its predecessor - and contains explanations of more than 62 000 terms.

The Australian dictionary of acronyms and abbreviations is available from the Australian Library and Information Association, PO Box E441, Kingston, ACT 2604.

Dr David J Jones is one of Australia's best-known writers on libraries and reference books. His other books include histories of the State Library of New South Wales and of Pustaka Negeri Sarawak in Malaysia, and The Australian librarian's manual. He has worked at the State Library of New South Wales since 1970 and is now an internationally-recognised library building consultant.

'An heroic performance which repeatedly proves to be well-selected and accurate.' inCite

'Very wide range, first of its kind, quite essential as a time-saver... Strongly recommended.' Politics

'I found the book enthralling.' The Australian Accountant

'An essential reference tool for libraries, schools and offices.' Australian Academic and Research Libraries

'All libraries and government departments and many other organisations would benefit from having one or more copies of this very useful, comprehensive and Australian book.' The Australian Library Journal

Book review by Holly McCausland